5 Tourist Attractions in Trondheim

Trondheim, Norway’s third largest city, is also one of the country’s oldest. Founded as a trading post by the Vikings in AD 997, it was Norway’s capital until 1217, and new kings are still crowned here. Built on a peninsula and linked to the mainland at its west end, Trondheim is the main town of the county of Sør-Trøndelag in central Norway.

Bakklandet and Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge)

Cross the river Nidelva through the red arches of the Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge) to reach the picturesque lanes and colorful old houses of the Bakklandet neighborhood. It feels like a small village, and the historic wooden riverside buildings have become small shops, galleries, coffee houses, and restaurants. Stroll along the river for views of the buildings lining the opposite bank. This is Trondheim’s most historic and atmospheric neighbourhood.

Kristiansten Fortress

Standing on a hill to the city’s east, Kristiansten Fortress (Kristiansten Festning) was built between 1681 and 1695 to protect the city against attack. It is a bit of a climb, but admission to the tower and its small museum is free, and the views across the city are lovely. Grim reminders of the fortress’s 20th-century history are the cells in which the Nazis held members of the Norwegian Resistance during the World War II occupation, and the memorial to those who were executed here.

Rockheim

Fans of pop and rock music will enjoy this trip down memory lane and the chance to hear some of Norway’s greats. The museum’s collections are displayed along with interactive exhibits, videos, and recordings. The permanent exhibit, The Time Tunnel, brings modern Norwegian musical and cultural history from the 1950s to the present to life through sounds and performance videos. Changing exhibits focus on particular aspects of music and culture.

Stiftsgarden

Built as a private home by the wealthy Christine Schøller in 1778, Stiftsgården is used by Norway’s royal family as their official residence when they visit Trondheim. One of the largest wooden buildings in Europe, this 140-room yellow mansion has housed royals and their guests since 1800. You can visit its opulent rooms on a guided tour.

Nidaros Cathedral

Built by King Olav Kyrre (1066–93) over the tomb of Norway’s patron saint, St. Olav, Nidaros Cathedral is widely regarded as the most magnificent church in Scandinavia. The cathedral is the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral and one of the city’s top tourist attractions. Kings have been christened and buried here, and since 1814 it’s been a requirement of the Norwegian constitution that the monarch should be crowned in Trondheim Cathedral.

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